- By Anushka Vats
- Thu, 25 Jan 2024 07:16 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Amid the drifting diplomatic ties between India and Maldives over President Mohammad Muizzu asking New Delhi to withdraw its troops from the Maldivian waters and remarks by ministers against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, two opposition parties in the Maldives have come out against the current regime over its 'stark' anti-India pivot.
In a joint press release, The Democrats and the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) described the change in foreign policy as "extremely detrimental" to the long-term growth of the nation.
The statement served to reassert and affirm the Opposition's belief that "alienating any development partner, and especially the country's most long-standing ally will be extremely detrimental to the long-term development of the country".
The Opposition also underlined that "stability and security in the Indian Ocean is vital to the stability and security of the Maldives."
The MDP and the Democrats highlighted how important it is for consecutive governments to continue being able "to work with all development partners for the benefit of the people of the Maldives, as the Maldives has traditionally done".
They voiced their concern that the safety and progress of the nation could be jeopardized by departing from the historical partnership with India.
A recent Reuters report stated that a Chinese research vessel was heading to the Maldives, adding that the timing of the development was significant, coming close on the heels of Maldivian President Muizzu's recent state visit to China, during which the two leaders aimed at strengthening ties.
Responding to the report, the Maldives Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the island country has always been a welcoming destination for vessels of 'friendly nations' and continues to host both civilian and military vessels making port calls for peaceful purposes.
(With inputs from agency)